Trust & Estate Lawyer in Howard County, MD
Maryland Trust & Estate Law
Maryland law provides a framework for estate planning, probate, and trust administration. The Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101 et seq.) modernizes trust law, while the Estates & Trusts Article governs wills and probate. A key consideration is the state estate tax, which applies to estates exceeding $5 million (ET § 7-309), separate from the federal exemption.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Howard County Estate Procedures
Wills are probated through the Howard County Register of Wills for small estates or the Orphans’ Court. The personal representative must be appointed and file an inventory of assets within 3 months. Trust administration follows the trust document and the Maryland Trust Act.
- File the will and petition for probate with the Howard County Register of Wills.
- The court appoints a personal representative, who must file an asset inventory within 3 months.
- Notify creditors and publish notices as required by law.
- File federal and Maryland estate tax returns if the estate exceeds $5 million (due 9 months after death).
- Pay valid claims, expenses, and taxes.
- Prepare a final accounting for court approval and distribute assets to beneficiaries.
Potential Outcomes & Consequences
In Howard County, estate administration errors or fiduciary breaches can lead to surcharges, removal of the personal representative, and frozen estate assets during litigation.
| Issue | Classification | Primary Consequence | Financial Impact | Timeline Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Will Contest | Civil Litigation | Estate distribution frozen | Significant legal fees | Adds 6-18 months |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Action | Personal representative removal & surcharge | Personal liability for losses | Varies |
| Missed Tax Filing | Tax Penalty | IRS/Maryland penalties & interest | Percentage of tax due + interest | Extended administration |
| Invalid Will | Intestacy | Assets distributed per Maryland law, not will | Potential disinheritance | Standard probate timeline |
Results may vary. Each case depends on specific facts and court decisions.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to trust and estate matters. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to Maryland estate law. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep engagement with complex statutory law.
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Howard County Trust & Estate Lawyer Near Me
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Howard County courts, accessible via I-95, Route 29, and Route 32. We are a trust and estate lawyer near Columbia Town Center and the Howard County Courthouse in Ellicott City.
We serve the communities of Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel (partial).
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maryland estate tax exemption?
$5 million. Maryland imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $5 million (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 7-309). This is separate from the federal exemption.
How long does probate take in Howard County?
Typically 12-18 months. The timeline varies based on estate complexity, asset location, and whether the will is contested. Small estates under $50,000 may use an expedited process.
What is a key duty of a personal representative in Maryland?
Filing an inventory of the estate’s assets with the Register of Wills within 3 months of appointment. Failure to comply can lead to removal and surcharge.
Can a will be contested in Maryland?
Yes. Grounds include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. A contest freezes estate distribution and can take 6-18 months to resolve.
What is the difference between a revocable and irrevocable trust in Maryland?
A revocable trust can be changed or revoked by the grantor and offers no asset protection or tax benefits. An irrevocable trust cannot be easily changed but can provide creditor protection and reduce estate taxes.
Related Legal Information
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.